Newport celebrates women's history
Posted on Monday 23rd September 2019
Newport's latest artworks celebrating more than 100 years of women's achievements were officially unveiled.
Funding for the Women's History project, in St Paul's Walk, Commercial Street, came from the National Heritage Lottery.
Newport City Council commissioned artist Stephanie Roberts to work with schools and community groups on the designs and creation of six mosaics dedicated to local women including Chartists and suffragettes as well as more recent role models.
It joins another mosaic commemorating the role of Newport women during the First World War installed last year.
Councillor Mark Whitcutt, Deputy Leader of Newport City Council, said: "The mosaics tell the story of the changing role of Newport women from the Chartists through to today. As we stand opposite the former St Paul's Church on Commercial Street, we remember the unique link these women had to the church, the locality and Newport, as some of them cared for the sick and wounded whilst St Paul's was a temporary Red Cross hospital during the First World War.
"I also thank Stephanie and all those who have contributed - and congratulate them on creating a fine memorial which portrays many of the roles undertaken by women and their absolute determination and unwavering commitment to bring about change."
Councillor Jane Mudd, Newport City Council's cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: "I would like to thank everyone involved in this wonderful project and perfectly complement the First World War mosaics on the opposite wall.
"Both artworks honour the women from all walks of life who have played an important role in Newport's past and present and I'm sure they will continue to inspire future generations.
"Thanks must also go to those who made the opening event so special, including Tin Shed Theatre Company for their performance, and Newport Mind.."
St Michael's RC Primary School pupils helped to design and make a mosaic dedicated to the public face of women.
Children from Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Teyrnon met athlete Natasha Cockram, the winner of the women's race in Newport's first marathon, ahead of their work on the mosaic featuring women in sport.
Pillgwenlly Primary School was involved in the artwork dedicated to female workers and Peter Strong was able to give them information about Newport's wartime munitions factories and the effect that the pioneering workforce has had on society today.